Tuesday, 12 March 2024 00:00

Wearing high heels can transform the way we walk, influencing posture and gait dynamics in subtle yet significant ways. The elevated heel of high-heeled shoes prompts a redistribution of body weight, causing the pelvis to tilt slightly forward and the spine to arch gently. This adjustment creates the illusion of longer legs and a more defined silhouette, enhancing confidence and poise. Additionally, high heels encourage shorter, more deliberate strides, leading to a smoother and more controlled walking motion. The lifted heel also engages the calf muscles and accentuates the curve of the buttocks, contributing to a more graceful and elegant stride. Despite these perceived benefits, it is important to note that prolonged wear of high heels can place strain on the feet, ankles, and lower back, potentially leading to discomfort and musculoskeletal issues over time. So, while high heels can indeed enhance the aesthetic appeal of walking, it is essential to strike a balance between style and comfort for optimal foot health. If you would like more information about the effect high heels have on walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Lance Greiff, DPM from Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Why High Heels Are Not Ideal for Healthy Feet
Tuesday, 05 March 2024 00:00

Heel spurs, bony outgrowths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, can cause heel pain when they rub against the soft tissues of your feet. Heel spurs do not usually cause pain. Pain typically comes about when the spurs press against or irritate the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. People with plantar fasciitis are more prone to developing heel spurs due to chronic inflammation. The pain associated with heel spurs is typically most pronounced during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Treatment for heel spurs may include stretching exercises, orthotic inserts, or other interventions to alleviate discomfort associated with heel spurs and promote overall foot health. If you are experiencing heel pain or heel spurs, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.  

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain
Sunday, 03 March 2024 00:00

Ingrown toenails can be painful and can make wearing shoes or walking uncomfortable. Seek professional help if you believe you've developed an ingrown toenail and be treated safely. 

Tuesday, 27 February 2024 00:00

Blood blisters on the feet and toes can result from various factors, including sustained pressure or friction on the skin without breaking the skin’s surface. This is common in activities like running, dancing, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. Blood blisters look like friction blisters, but are filled with blood instead of clear fluid. They may appear red, purple, or black. While blood blisters may look scary, they are generally common and not usually a cause for alarm. Treatment typically involves allowing the blister to heal naturally over one to two weeks, with the formation of new skin beneath the blister. It's essential to protect the blister during this time, possibly by applying a bandage or similar protective covering. Prevention strategies to avoid developing blood blisters on the feet or toes include well-fitting footwear, protective gear during activities, and moisture-wicking socks to reduce sweat and friction. If the blood blister becomes painful or shows signs of infection, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Lance Greiff, DPM of Great Neck Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

  • Bubble of skin filled with fluid
  • Redness
  • Moderate to severe pain
  • Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Great Neck Bronx, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Blisters